You've likely enjoyed corn on the cob before, but have you experienced the zesty twist of chili lime butter? This summertime favorite takes grilled corn to new heights, combining sweet, smoky, and tangy flavors in one irresistible package. As you bite into the perfectly charred kernels, you'll wonder why you haven't tried this combination sooner. But there's more to this dish than meets the eye. From its origins to the perfect grilling technique, there's a story behind every ear of corn. Let's explore what makes this side dish a true standout at any barbecue.
Key Takeaways
- Brush corn with a mixture of softened butter, chili powder, and lime zest for a zesty flavor boost.
- Grill corn on medium-high heat (375-450°F), rotating every few minutes for even cooking and slight charring.
- Continually baste corn with chili lime butter while grilling to enhance flavor and prevent drying.
- Cook until kernels are tender and have beautiful charred spots, typically 10-15 minutes.
- Brush with remaining chili lime butter after grilling and serve with optional toppings like cotija cheese or cilantro.
History
Throughout history, corn has been a staple food in many cultures, particularly in the Americas. Native Americans were the first to cultivate this versatile crop, developing numerous varieties over thousands of years. When European explorers arrived in the New World, they quickly recognized corn's value and brought it back to Europe, where it spread rapidly.
Grilling corn on the cob is a cooking method that's been around for centuries. You'll find that many ancient civilizations, including the Aztecs and Mayans, cooked corn directly over fire. This technique not only made the corn easier to eat but also enhanced its natural sweetness.
As corn's popularity grew worldwide, different cultures adapted the grilling method to suit their tastes. The addition of flavored butter to grilled corn is a more recent innovation. You'll see that it gained popularity in the 20th century as people began experimenting with new flavor combinations.
The chili lime butter in this recipe is a nod to Mexican cuisine, which has long paired corn with spicy and citrusy flavors. Today, you'll find countless variations of grilled corn worldwide, each reflecting local culinary traditions.
Recipe
Grilled corn on the cob is a beloved summer staple that combines the natural sweetness of fresh corn with the smoky flavors imparted by grilling. This recipe takes the classic dish to new heights by incorporating a zesty chili lime butter, creating a perfect balance of heat, tanginess, and richness.
With just a handful of ingredients, this simple yet flavorful recipe transforms ordinary corn into a mouthwatering side dish that's sure to be a hit at your next barbecue or family gathering. The combination of chili powder and lime zest in the butter adds a vibrant, Mexican-inspired twist to the traditional grilled corn, making it a standout accompaniment to any meal.
- 4 ears of fresh corn, husks removed
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 lime, zested and juiced
- Salt to taste
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with chili powder, lime zest, lime juice, and salt until well combined. Brush the corn with some of the chili lime butter and place it on the grill.
Cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally and brushing with more butter as needed, until the corn is tender and lightly charred in spots. Remove from the grill and brush with any remaining butter before serving.
For best results, choose fresh corn with bright green husks and golden silk. If you don't have access to a grill, you can achieve similar results by roasting the corn in a 425°F (220°C) oven for about 20-25 minutes.
To add extra flavor, consider sprinkling some crumbled cotija cheese or chopped cilantro over the corn just before serving. Remember to let the corn cool slightly before eating to avoid burns from the hot butter.
Cooking Steps
To prepare your delicious grilled corn on the cob, you'll need to follow a few simple steps.
First, preheat your grill and mix the chili lime butter, which you'll use to brush the corn before grilling.
Once your corn is buttered, place it on the grill, rotating occasionally and brushing with more butter as needed, until it's tender and lightly charred.
Step 1. Prepare the Grill
Before you dive into grilling, it's essential to properly prepare your grill. Start by cleaning the grates thoroughly with a wire brush to remove any leftover food particles or debris. This step ensures your corn won't stick and prevents unwanted flavors from previous grilling sessions.
Next, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, which is typically around 375-450°F (190-230°C). If you're using a charcoal grill, arrange the coals in an even layer for consistent heat distribution.
While the grill is heating up, lightly oil the grates using tongs and a paper towel dipped in vegetable oil. This creates a non-stick surface and helps achieve those coveted grill marks on your corn.
If you're using a gas grill, make sure you have enough propane to last through the cooking process. For charcoal grills, allow the coals to burn until they're covered with white ash, which indicates they're at the right temperature.
Once your grill is hot and ready, you can begin grilling your corn with confidence, knowing you've set the stage for perfectly cooked, flavorful results.
Step 2. Mix Chili Lime Butter
With the grill ready, let's turn our attention to creating the flavorful chili lime butter that'll elevate your grilled corn.
In a small bowl, start by adding 1/2 cup (115g) of softened, unsalted butter. Softening the butter beforehand is crucial, as it'll make mixing much easier and ensure even distribution of flavors.
Next, add 1 tablespoon of chili powder to the butter. This'll give your corn a delightful kick without overwhelming the natural sweetness.
Now, zest one lime directly into the bowl, being careful to avoid the bitter white pith. Squeeze the juice from half the lime into the mixture as well. This combination of zest and juice will infuse the butter with a bright, citrusy tang.
Step 3. Brush Corn With Butter
Once you've prepared your chili lime butter, it's time to get grilling. Start by brushing each ear of corn generously with the flavored butter mixture. Don't be shy; make sure you coat the entire surface of the corn, as this will help create a delicious, caramelized exterior while infusing the kernels with flavor.
As you grill the corn, you'll want to continue brushing it with the chili lime butter. This process not only adds more flavor but also helps to keep the corn moist during cooking. Turn the corn every few minutes, applying more butter each time.
You'll notice the kernels starting to char slightly, which is exactly what you want for that perfect grilled flavor. Keep an eye on your corn as it cooks, as grilling times can vary depending on the heat of your grill.
You're aiming for tender kernels with some charred spots for that smoky taste. Once the corn is done, give it one final brush with the remaining butter before serving. This last coat will ensure maximum flavor and a glossy appearance that's sure to impress your guests.
Step 4. Grill and Rotate Corn
As you place the buttered corn on the preheated grill, you'll hear that satisfying sizzle. This is the moment when the magic begins, transforming your corn into a smoky, flavorful delight.
Keep a close eye on your corn, as it'll need your attention for the next 10-12 minutes.
You'll want to rotate the corn every few minutes to ensure even cooking and charring. Use tongs to carefully turn each ear, making sure all sides get their fair share of heat. As you rotate, you'll notice the kernels starting to darken and caramelize. This is exactly what you're looking for – those charred spots will add depth to the flavor profile.
While you're rotating, take the opportunity to brush on more of that zesty chili lime butter. This won't only add flavor but also help prevent the corn from drying out.
Keep an eye out for any flare-ups, and if they occur, move the corn to a cooler part of the grill temporarily. Remember, patience is key here – resist the urge to crank up the heat or rush the process.
Step 5. Brush With Remaining Butter
After grilling and rotating the corn for 10-12 minutes, you'll notice it's developed a beautiful char and is tender to the touch.
Now it's time to give your corn a final flavor boost. Take the remaining chili lime butter you prepared earlier and generously brush it over each ear of corn. Don't be shy – this is your chance to really infuse the corn with that zesty, spicy goodness.
As you brush, you'll see the butter melting into the kernels, creating a glossy sheen. Make sure to coat every side, getting into all the nooks and crannies. The heat from the corn will help the butter spread evenly, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly.
If you have any butter left, consider giving the corn one last brush just before serving. This final touch ensures that every bite is packed with flavor. Remember, the corn will be hot, so use tongs to handle it safely.
Once you've brushed all the corn, it's ready to be plated and served. Your guests will be impressed by the vibrant colors and enticing aroma of your grilled corn on the cob with chili lime butter.
Final Thoughts
With this simple yet flavorful recipe, you'll transform ordinary corn into a mouthwatering summer staple.
The combination of chili powder and lime zest in the butter adds a zesty kick that complements the natural sweetness of the corn perfectly.
Don't be afraid to experiment with the seasoning; you can adjust the amount of chili powder to suit your taste preferences or even try different spice blends for variety.
